Reading Latin – Gerald of Wales Descriptio Cambriae Book 2

Descriptio Cambriae

Birgitta Hoffmann

Gerald of Wales was born near Swansea and served at the court of Henry II. His Description of Wales is an idiosyncratic attempt to explain his Wales (which was mainly the South and Southwest of the principality) to the English court. His choices of subjects are at times engaging and sometimes funny, and his Latin is impressive in its purity, while still beholden to the fact that he spoke both Norman French and Welsh.

Learning materials will be provided, but a Latin/English dictionary will be useful.

Newcomers are always welcome but should ensure that they are familiar with Latin Grammar and vocabulary at roughly A-level or beyond, feel free to ask to come for a trial session if you are unsure.